"Financial peace isn't the acquisition of stuff. It's learning to live on less than you make, so you can give money back and have money to invest. You can't win until you do this.” - Dave Ramsey

Hey Everyone,

Welcome to this week’s edition of The Ridgeline Rundown!

In this edition, we’re diving into “The Rooms That Matter Most When You Sell”—because not every room adds equal value. Whether you're prepping to list or just curious, this insight can help boost your home's appeal and ROI.

We’re also spotlighting local events around Colorado Springs you won’t want to miss, and sharing the latest episode of American Dream TV | S9 E10, where I visit Portico Coffeehouse and a true American classic in Wolf Ranch

As always, I’m here to guide you with honest advice, real strategies, and a personalized approach that makes a difference. Have questions? Let’s chat and build a plan that works for you.

Mortgage Minute

Mortgage rates started today unchanged but ticked slightly higher by afternoon after bond markets weakened. There was no major U.S. data, but movement came from the European Central Bank’s announcement and possible progress in U.S.-China trade talks. Tomorrow’s key jobs report could bring volatility—especially if the numbers surprise.

American Dream TV: Wolf Ranch Coffee Tour

The Insider’s Guide to Real Estate | Tips

The Rooms That Matter Most When You Sell

Now that buyers have more options for their move, you need to be a bit more intentional about making sure your house looks its best when you sell. And proper staging can be a great way to do just that.

What Is Home Staging?

It’s not about making your house look super trendy or like it belongs in a magazine. It’s about helping it feel welcoming and move-in ready, so it's easy for buyers to picture themselves living there.

It’s important to understand there’s a range when it comes to staging. It can include everything from simple tweaks to more extensive setups, depending on your needs and budget. But a little bit of time, effort, and money invested in this process can really make a difference when you sell – especially in today’s market.

A study from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows staged homes sell faster and for more money than homes that aren't staged at all (see below):

Which Rooms Matter Most?

The best part is, odds are you don’t have to stage your whole house to make an impact. According to NAR, here’s where buyers’ agents say staging can make the biggest difference (see graph below):

As you can see, agents who talk to buyers regularly agree, the most important spaces to stage are the rooms where buyers will spend the most time, like the living room, primary bedroom, and kitchen.

While this can give you a good general idea of what may be worth it and what’s probably not, it can’t match a local agent’s expertise.

How an Agent Helps You Decide What You Need To Do

Agents are experts on what buyers are looking for where you live, because they hear that feedback all the time in showings, home tours, walkthroughs, and from other agents. And they'll use those insights to give their opinion on your specific house and what areas may need a little bit of staging help, like if you need to:

• Declutter and depersonalize by removing photos and personal items

• Arrange your furniture to improve the room's flow and make it feel bigger

• Add plants, move art, or re-arrange other accessories

A lot of buyers can use the agent’s know-how as the only staging advice they need. But, if your home needs more of a transformation, or it’s empty and could benefit from rented furniture, a great agent will be able to determine if bringing in a professional stager might be a good idea, too. Just know that level of help comes with a higher price tag. NAR reports:

A local agent will help you weigh the costs and benefits based on your budget, your timeline, and the overall condition of your house. They’ll also consider how quickly similar homes are selling nearby and what buyers are expecting at your price point.

Bottom Line

Staging doesn’t have to be over-the-top or expensive. It just needs to help buyers feel at home. And a great agent will help you figure out the level of staging that makes the most sense for your goals.

Which room in your house do you think would make the biggest impression on a buyer?

Let’s walk through your home together and chat about what will make your house stand out.

Colorado Springs Social Scene

Military News and Updates

Military training exercises to be held in Colorado Springs near Memorial Park, old St. Francis

The Colorado Springs Police Department announced Tuesday evening that the US Military will be conducting training exercises in Colorado Springs this week.

According to the department's social media announcement, the training exercises, conducted in coordination with local authorities, will take place "from June 3 through June 6" and will take place near Memorial Park and the old St. Francis Hospital at Pikes Peak Avenue and South Institute Street.

Feel free to reach out with any real estate questions—I’m here to help, no matter the state!

Referrals are the biggest compliment, so send anyone my way. Until next time!